The HSA advises anyone who has purchased the product (left) not to consume it and seek medical advice if they have already done so, especially if they feel unwell. -- PHOTO: HSA
A TRADITIONAL medicine named 'Air Ikan Haruan' has been found to contain dexamethasone, an undeclared potent medicinal substance, the Health Science Authority (HSA) said on Thursday and advised the public not to take the product.
While the item has not been found for sale in local retail outlets, the HSA is concerned as members of the public may have bought it from overseas.
The HSA was alerted to the product after an elderly patient reported severe adverse drug reactions after consuming 'Air Ikan Haruan' for more than a year.
She had bought the product overseas and taken it for pain relief. The elderly patient then suffered weakness, fatigue, widespread body aches, loss of appetite and weight loss after stopping consumption. According to the HSA, these were symptomatic of abrupt dexamethasone withdrawal.
Dexamethasone is a prescription drug commonly used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. The unsupervised and prolonged usage of dexamethasone is associated with serious adverse reactions such as irregular heartbeat, increased blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar.
The HSA advises anyone who has purchased the product not to consume it and seek medical advice if they have already done so, especially if they feel unwell.
Anyone who comes across 'Air Ikan Haruan' being sold illegally should report it to HSA's Enforcement Branch at 6866 3485 (24-hour line) or email hsa_is@hsa.gov.sg
